CAEF Asks Chief Rodd to Nominate Constable Jeff Smith for the Ontario Medal for Police Bravery

September 22, 2026

Chief Murray Rodd,

Belleville Police Service

Dear Chief Rodd,

On behalf of the Canadian Antisemitism Education Foundation, I am writing to request that your office nominate Constable Jeff Smith for the Ontario Medal for Police Bravery. Yesterday, on the holiest day of the year for the Jewish people, Constable Smith demonstrated extraordinary courage, exposed himself to danger, and in an exchange of gunfire with a would-be assassin, he took a bullet and is suffering the consequences.

The Jewish people worldwide are learning of Constable Smith’s action and sending their prayers and thoughts for his speedy recovery and return to health. CAEF acknowledges the support of the entire Belleville police service in providing security for the Sons of Jacob synagogue that was about to be attacked. Along with appreciation from the local Jewish community, know the entire Jewish world appreciates your support and commends the bravery of Constable Jeff Smith.

Please thank the other officer who was present at the synagogue and also defended the community.

Jews have been expressing alarm at rising Jew hatred, at threats and harassment, physical attacks and vandalism, that have increased dramatically over the past 3 years. We hope all police services in Canada are taking such threats seriously and that no harm will come to our community, and no harm to our police defenders.

Sincerely,

Andria Spindel, Executive Director